MVC Driver Manual - The Official Web Site for The State of New … · 2017-12-12MVC Driver Manual -...

MANUALDRIVER

THENEW JERSEY

www.njmvc.gov

http://www.njmvc.gov

Chapter 1

NEW JERSEY DRIVER MANUAL www.njmvc.gov

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The New Jersey Driver License System

6 Laws Governing Driver Licenses8 Digital Driver License8 Types of New Jersey Licenses11 6 Point ID Verification16 Graduated Driver License (GDL)21 Special Learner Permits for New Jersey Residents 22 Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents

22 Examination Permits for Out-of-State Drivers23 Examination Permits for Out-of-Country Drivers 23 International Driving Permit (IDP)24 Non-Driver ID24 Organ Donation24 Next-of-Kin Registry (Saras Law)25 Motor Voter25 Hearing-Impaired Designation26 Commercial Driver License (CDL)


may drive with that license for up to a year; the motorist may also be eligible for a New Jersey driver license.


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Basic Automobile LicenseFor all types of Class D motor vehiclesregisteredbytheMVC,exceptmotorcycles.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

4 Years

18 (Permit: 16)

$10

$24

KVR 1

Probationary Automobile LicenseFor all types of Class D motor vehiclesregisteredbytheMVC,exceptmotorcycles.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

Commercial Driver LicenseForlargetrucks,busesandvehicles(ClassesA,BandC).

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

Motorcycle LicenseFormostvehicleswithfewerthanfourwheels(ClassE). Issuedasaseparate licenseorasan endorsement (M) if the individual alreadyholdsabasicNewJerseydriverlicense.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Test(s) Required:

Probationary Motorcycle LicenseFormostvehicleswithfewerthanfourwheels(ClassE). Issuedasaseparate licenseorasan endorsement (M) if the individual alreadyholdsabasicNewJerseydriverlicense.

Expiration:

Minimum Age:

Permit Fee:

Photo License Fee:

Tests Required:

4 Years

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$10+$4 decals

$6 3

KVR 1

4 Years

17

$10+$4 decals

$6 3

KVR 1

4 Years

18/21 4

$125 5

$42+$2 per endorsementCKVR

4 Years

17

$5

$24 or $18 6

KVR 1



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6 POINT ID VERIFICATIONPerN.J.A.C.13:21-8.2,allNewJerseydriverlicenseapplicantsmustcomplete6PointIDVerificationbypresentingdocumentsthatprovetheirage,identity,and legalpresence in theU.S.Allapplicantsmustprove identity throughaprescribedcombinationofdocumentsthatincludes:

Atleastoneprimarydocument.

Atleastonesecondarydocument.

AtleastsixpointsofID.

Proofofaddress.

Use the chart on the following pages to select your documents, or usethe online Document Selector at www.state.nj.us/mvc/Licenses/DocumentSelector/index.htm.Ifdiscrepanciesexistwithinorbetweendocumentspresented to theMVC,theapplicantmayberequiredtoprovideadditionaldocumentation.Anypermitorlicenseapplicationmayberefusedifadocumentappearsaltered,falseorotherwiseinvalid.

Anon-citizenmustsubmitproofofcontinued legalpresence in theUnitedStates.TheMVCmayacceptotherdocumentsprovingidentity,dateofbirthandcontinuedlegalpresence.DocumentsmustbeprovidedinEnglish.

A motorist referred for a conference due to identification issues will berequiredtoprovideanoriginalorcertifiedcopyofhis/hercivilbirthcertificateif a U.S. citizen. Passports will not be accepted. Non-U.S. citizens may beaskedforadditionalidentificationdocuments.

For assistance with 6 Point ID Verification, visit www.njmvc.gov or call(609) 292-6500.

Note:Feesinthismanualaresubjecttochange.Currentfeesareavailableonlineatwww.njmvc.govorbycalling(609) 292-6500.

http://www.njmvc.govhttp://www.state.nj.us/mvc/Licenses/http://www.njmvc.govhttp://www.njmvc.gov

A U.S.

or expired less than 3 years

permanent resident card (new

permanent resident card(

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

U.S.

If you are under 18, then we will accept a parent or guardian consent that verifies you are living with a parent or guardian

Checking or savings account statement from a bank or credit union, issued within the past 60 days

(N.J.S.A. 39:3-9b)

GRADUATED DRIVER LICENSE (GDL)In 2001, New Jersey sought to enhance driver preparation and safety byimplementing a multi-stage driver licensing system. Known as the GraduatedDriverLicense(GDL)Program,thesystemgraduallyintroducesdrivingprivilegestofirst-timedrivers,extendstheirpracticedrivingtimeandrequiresaminimumageof18inordertoreceiveanunrestricted,basicdriverlicense.GDLrestrictionsplaceduponfirst-timedriversmustbestrictlyadheredto.Failuretodosomayresult inafineof$100orapossiblesuspensionofamotoristsdrivingprivilege.(N.J.S.A.39:3-10and39:3-13through39:13.8)


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OPTION

MVCwillvalidateSpecialLearnerPermitsONLYaftertrainingcoursecompletion.

GET A SPECIAL LEARNER PERMIT Mustbeatleast16yearsold

Musthavesignedparentorguardianconsent

Mustbeenrolledinapprovedbehind-the-wheeldrivertrainingcoursethroughtheNJDepartmentofEducationorcommercialdrivingschool

Anapprovedinstructormustpurchasethepermit

MustpassMVCsknowledgeandvisiontests

Mustpayrequiredfee

STEP 1

GRADUATED

DRIVER

LICENSE THE EARLY BIRD ROAD OPTION

PRACTICE WITH AN ADULT SUPERVISING DRIVER Mustobservespeciallearnerpermitdrivingrestrictions

Mustpracticeatleastsixmonths

GET A PROBATIONARY LICENSE Musthavecompletedsixmonthsofsuperviseddriving

withoutanysuspensionsorpostponements

MustpassMVCsroadtest

Mustbeatleast17yearsold

STEP 3

WITH A PROBATIONARY DRIVER LICENSE Mustpracticeunsuperviseddrivingforatleastoneyear

Mustobserveprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

STEP 4

GET THE BASIC DRIVER LICENSE Mustbeatleast18yearsold

Musthavecompletedoneyearofunsuperviseddrivingwithprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

Mustpayrequiredfee

STEP 5

Note:PermitmaynotbeusedforpracticedrivinguntilvalidatedatanMVCDriverTestingCenter.

A

STEP 2


GRADUATED

DRIVER

LICENSE THE YOUNG ADULT ROAD OPTION

GET AN EXAMINATION PERMIT MustpassMVCsknowledgeandvisiontest


Mustpayrequiredfee

Mustobtainparentorguardianconsentifyouareunder18yearsofage

STEP 1

PRACTICE SUPERVISED DRIVING Mustpracticewithanadultsupervisingdriver

Mustpracticeatleastsixmonths

Mustobserveexamination-permitdrivingrestrictions

STEP 2

GET A PROBATIONARY LICENSE Musthavecompletedsixmonthsofsuperviseddriving

withoutanysuspensionsorpostponements


STEP 3

PRACTICE UNSUPERVISED DRIVING Mustpracticeunsuperviseddrivingforatleastoneyear

Mustfollowprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

STEP 4

GET THE BASIC DRIVER LICENSE Mustbeatleast18yearsold

Musthavecompletedoneyearofunsuperviseddriving

Mustpayrequiredfee

STEP 5

B


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GRADUATED

DRIVER

LICENSE THE ADULT ROAD OPTION CGET AN EXAMINATION PERMIT


MustpassMVCsknowledgeandvisiontests

Mustpayrequiredfee

STEP 1

PRACTICE SUPERVISED DRIVING Mustpracticewithanadultsupervisingdriver

Mustpracticeatleastthreemonths

Mustobserveexaminationpermitdrivingrestrictions

STEP 2

GET A PROBATIONARY LICENSE Musthavecompletedthreemonthsofsupervised

drivingwithoutanysuspensionsorpostponements


STEP 3

PRACTICE UNSUPERVISED DRIVING Mustpracticeunsuperviseddrivingforatleastoneyear

Mustfollowapplicableprobationarydriverlicenserestrictions

STEP 4

GET THE BASIC DRIVER LICENSE Musthavecompletedoneyearofunsuperviseddriving

Mustpayrequiredfee

STEP 5


^^ SPECIAL LEARNER PERMIT RESTRICTIONS Nodrivingbetween11:01p.m.and5:00a.m.

Nousinghand-heldorhands-freecellphonesoranyotherelectronicdevices.

Permitholdermustbeaccompaniedinthefrontseatbyanadultsupervisingdriverwhoisatleast21yearsofageandwhopossessesavalidNewJerseydriverlicenseandhasaminimumofthreeyearsdrivingexperience.

Passengersarelimitedtoanyparent,guardianordependentofthespecial

permitholderandoneadditionalpassenger.

Permitholderandallpassengersmustwearseatbelts.

Mustdisplaydecalsonlicenseplates.

^^ EXAMINATION PERMIT RESTRICTIONS Nodrivingbetween11:01p.m.and5:00a.m.1


Permitholdermustbeaccompaniedinthefrontseatbyanadult

supervisingdriverwhoisatleast21yearsofageandwhopossessesavalidNewJerseydriverlicenseandhasaminimumofthreeyearsdrivingexperience.1

Passengersarelimitedtodependentsofthepermitholderandone

additionalperson,unlessaccompaniedbyaparent/guardian.

Permitholderandallpassengersmustwearseatbelts.


^^ PROBATIONARY DRIVER LICENSE RESTRICTIONS Nodrivingbetween11:01p.m.and5:00a.m.1


Passengersarelimitedtodependentsoftheprobationarylicenseholder

andoneadditionalperson,unlessaccompaniedbyaparent/guardian.

Probationarylicenseholderandallpassengersmustwearseatbelts.


1IftheExaminationPermitorProbationaryLicenseholderis21yearsofageorolder,hour,passengeranddecalrestrictionsdonotapply.

EXAMINATION PERMITS FOR NJ RESIDENTSAnyNewJerseyresidentwhoisatleast17yearsoldandisnotinsuspensionstatus can obtain a driver examination permit at any MVC agency. Theexamination permit is different from a student learner permit because theapplicantdoesnothavetobeastudentandaninstructorisnotnecessary.

Note:Adriverexaminationpermitisrequiredevenifthemotoristpossessesavalidlicensefromanotherstate.SeeExaminationPermitsforOut-of-StateDrivers.

Afteranapplicantfillsouttheformwithhis/herpersonalinformationandprovides6PointsofIDVerificationandproofthattheU.S.governmentauthorizeshis/herpresence inthiscountry,he/shecanpurchaseapermittotaketothenearestDriverTestingCenter.BasicautomobilelicenseapplicantsmustsupplyaSocialSecuritynumberoranexemptionfromtheSocialSecurityAdministration.

Note: Most agencies conduct knowledge testing and vision screening. Tofind out which MVC agencies offer driver testing services, check online at www.njmvc.govorcall(609) 292-6500.

TheMVCwillvalidatethepermitforpracticedrivingaftertheapplicantpassesthe requiredknowledge testand vision screening. Resultsare valid for twoyears(seeChapter2).

EXAMINATION PERMITS FOR OUT-OF-STATEDRIVERSAllout-of-statedriversarerequiredtopurchaseanexaminationpermitwithin60daysofbecomingapermanentNewJerseyresidentorwhenhis/herout-of-statelicenseexpires,whichevercomesfirst.

Out-of-statedriverswhoareunder18yearsofageandmovetoNewJerseyaresubjecttothisstatesGDLProgram.IftheywishtoapplyforaNewJerseylicense, they should follow the steps outlined for special and examination

Afteranapplicantfillsouttheformwithhis/herpersonal informationandprovides6PointsofIDVerificationand,ifapplicable,proofthattheU.S.governmentauthorizeshis/herpresenceinthiscountry,theinstructorcanpurchaseapermitatanyMVCagency.

Uponcompletionoftheapproveddrivertrainingcourseandbeforepracticedriving,thepermitholdermusthavethepermitvalidatedatanyMVCDriverTestingCenter.



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permitholders.PermitsmaybepurchasedatanyMVCagencyuponpresentingtherequiredproofofageand6PointIDVerification.Applicantsarerequiredtopassavisionscreeningtest.Knowledgeandroadtestsarewaivedaslongasyouhaveavalid,non-probationarydriverlicenseissuedbyanyofthe50states,theDistrictofColumbia,orU.S.territorieswithadriverabstract.

Out-of-statedriverlicensesmustbesurrenderedwhentheMVCissuesaNewJerseydriverlicense.

EXAMINATION PERMITS FOR OUT-OF-COUNTRY DRIVERSAnon-citizenmustshowformalproofthatU.S.CitizenshipandImmigrationSer-vices(USCIS)hasauthorizedhis/herpresenceinthiscountryunderfederallaw.

StudentsandtheirfamiliesonvisasmustshowFormI-20,studentidentificationcardsorcertificationonschoolletterheadindicatingstatus.

Note:Foreigndriversmayuse theirnativedriver licensesasproofofdrivingexperience iftheircountriesaremembersoftheUnitedNationsConventiononRoadTrafficandiftheapplicantshavetheirlicensestranslatedintoEnglishbyaconsulateoranMVC-approvedtranslator.Aroadtestmaystillberequired.

INTERNATIONAL DRIVING PERMIT (IDP)Visitorswitha foreigndriver licensewho travel to theUnitedStatesshouldcarryanIDPorattachanacceptableEnglishtranslationtotheirnationaldriverlicenses.TheIDPistranslatedintotheofficiallanguagesoftheUnitedNations(including English) and is useful in traffic emergencies. Non-citizens mustobtaintheIDPintheirnativecountrybeforetravelingtotheUnitedStates.

NewJerseymotoristswhotraveltoforeigncountriesmayobtainanIDPappli-cationthroughtheirlocalAAAclub.Visitwww.aaa.com/vacation/idpc.html formoreinformation.

Note: A motorist must carry a valid driver license. Although it is an officialdocument, the IDP cannot replace a driver license, but it can be used inconjunction with the license to provide an additional source of motoristidentificationandspanforeignlanguagebarriers.

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http://www.njmvc.govhttp://www.aaa.com/vacation/idpc.html

edyou will be ask-

HARD OF HEARING DESIGNATIONhard of hearing

who wish to register are provided a signature pad to sign, while their personal information (name, date-of-birth, address, etc.) is sent electronically to the State Board of Elections for review. When customers report a change of address, the MVC sends the change of address information to the applicable board of elections, for voter registration purposes. After the State Board of Elections approves the information received, they notify the respective County Board of Elections that the applicants eligibility requirements have been met, and the applicantsapplicants are registered to vote. For more information on voter registration, visit www.nj.gov/state.elections/voting-information.html.

http://www.nj.gov/state.elections/voting-information.html

! COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE (CDL)

There are three Commercial Driver License (CDL) classifications: A, B, and C. However, no one can apply for these licenses until he/she is in possession of a valid basic Class D New Jersey driver license or he/she possesses a valid out-of-state CDL.

Class A: License is necessary for the operation of a tractor trailer or truck and trailer

with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. The Class A license also allows the driver to operate all vehicles in the class B, C, and D categories, provided the driver has qualified for all the proper extra endorsements.

Class B: License is necessary for the operation of:

Any vehicle with a GVWR of 26.001 pounds or more.

A vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more towing a trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less.

Any bus, including school buses, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

A Class B license allows the driver to operate all vehicles in the Class C and D categories, provided the driver has qualified for all the proper extra endorsements.

Class C: License is necessary for:

Any vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26.001 pounds. u sed and placarded to transport hazardous material.

Any bus, including school buses, designed to carry 16 passengers or more, including the driver, and with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds and all school vehicles designed for 15 passengers or fewer, including the driver.

Any bus or other vehicle designed to transport 8 to 15 passengers, including the driver, which is used for hire.

'II COMMERCIAL DRIVER EXEMPTIONS

Taxi drivers, ride-sharing van drivers, funeral procession drivers, operators of rescue, firstaid squad or firefighter apparatus, farmers hauling their own products and equipment within 150 miles of their farms, non-civilian operators of military equipment and operators of construction equipment not designed for operation on public roads are exempt and need not apply for a commercial driver license. Operators of recreational vehicles are also exempt, provided the vehicle is being operated only for personal use. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10k, 39:3-10.11)


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27COMMERCIAL LICENSE RESTRICTIONSNumberedrestrictions,suchascorrective lenses,arenotedonallcommerciallicenses.Anexampleofaspecialrestrictiononacommercial license isLforairbrakes.Thismeansthemotoristmaynotoperateavehicleequippedwithairbrakes,ifdesignatedonthelicense.

COMMERCIAL DRIVER MANUALFormoreinformationoncommercialmotorvehiclelicensing,refertotheMVCsCommercialDriverManual.AllCDL testsarebasedon informationcontainedin themanual.Togetacopy,visitanyMVCagencyor regionalservicecenterorview/requestitonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.Manualsmayalsobeobtainedbycalling(609) 292-6500.

COMMERCIAL LICENSE ENDORSEMENTSMostcommercialdriverswillneedtoobtainatleastonespecialendorsement.AnexampleofanendorsementonacommerciallicenseisHforhazardousmaterials,whichmeansthatthemotoristmaylegallytransporthazardousmaterials.

CODE VEHICLE ENDORSEMENT SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

T DoubleandTripleTrailer Neededbyoperatorsofvehiclespullingtwoorthreetrailers

Requires a knowledge test. Class Alicense required to operate this typeofvehicle.

P Passenger Neededbyoperatorsofbusesorsimilarvehiclesusedtotransportpassengers

Requiresaroadtest.Otherspecialrequirementsarenecessary(seeCDLManual). Must be 21 years of age and have 3 years driving experience.

S SchoolBus Neededbyallschoolbusdrivers Requiresaknowledgeandroadtest.MotoristswhoholdanSendorsementwillalsohavetotestforaPendorsement.Botharerequiredtooperateaschoolbus.

N TankerVehicle Neededbyoperatorsofvehiclesusedtotransportliquidsorgasinbulk

Requiresaknowledgetest.

H HazardousMaterials Neededbyoperatorsofvehiclesusedtotransporthazardousmaterials

Requiresaknowledgetest.Mustbetrainedandretestedeverytwoyears.SeetheFederalMotorCarrierSafetyAdministrationforrequirements(www.fmcsa.dot. gov). Must be 21 years of age.

http://www.njmvc.govhttp://www.njmvc.gov

Chapter 2

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New Jersey Driver Testing

30 Requirements for a Basic Driver License33 Safety Pledge to Nikhil33 Voter Registration34 Road Test36 Reasons for Rejection


deaf or hard of hearing,

and Hard of Hearing.

and Hard ofHearing and is on the approved list of professional interpreters.

deaf or hard of hearing interpreter is:

there is a test using sign language visuals.

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""' TEST REQUIREMENTS

SCREENING MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TESTS

EYESIGHT

WRITTEN

HEALTH

Basic license applicants: 20/50 vision with or without corrective lenses. For sight in one eye only, that eye must meet the 20/50 rule and the applicant must have documentation signed by a licensed physician.

CDL license applicants: 20/40 vision with or without corrective lenses in both eyes. Must be able to distinguish among red, green and amber lights.

80 percent, or 40 of the 50 questions, must have correct answers.

Inform examiner of health problems; a medical review may be necessary. Federal law and New Jersey regulations require commercial drivers to submit a COL Holder Sel f -Certification form and a valid medical examiner's certificate, if applicable, to the MVC. Medical examiner certificates must be completed by a federally certified medical examiner.

""' OUT-OF-STATE AND OUT-OF COUNTRY APPLICANTS Applicants may transfer a valid out-of-state license to New Jersey. Knowledge

and road tests will be waived for applicants, at least 18 years of age, who submit

a valid, non-provisional driver license issued by any of the 50 states, the District

of Columbia, the U.S. Territories of American Samoa and Guam, Puerto Rico or

the U.S. Virgin Islands*. The 6 Point ID requirements must also be submitted.

*Persons transferring driver licenses from the U.S. Territories of American

Samoa and Guam, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands must present a certified

driver abstract from that jurisdiction in order to have the knowledge test waived.

If that document is not readily available, the person may choose to take the

knowledge test in order to obtain a New Jersey driver license.

These applicants will be issued a four-year basic New Jersey license and will be

required to surrender the out-of-state license.

Out-of-state applicants between 17 and 18 years of age who possess a valid

out-of-state license will be given a probationary license for a period of one year

and must comply with GDL requirements and restrictions.

All out-of-country applicants must pass the knowledge test and a vision

screening and may be required to pass a road test. Test results are valid for

two years.

NEW JERSEY DRIVER MANUAL. www.njmvc.gov

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In August of 2015, Nikhils Law, which amends N.J.S.A. 39:3-41, was signed into law. Eective March 1, 2016, Nikhils Law reinforces the dangers of failing to comply with New Jerseys motor vehicle tra c laws.

THE PLEDGEIn order to ensure the safety of others on the road, passengers in my car, and myself as a driver, I pledge to obey tra c rules when driving and to be extra cautious and supremely attentive. Specically, I will:

SSTOP COMPLETELY. I will come to a complete halt at any STOP sign and will never go through a red light.

STAY ALERT. I will strive to keep my hands on the wheel and my mind on the road.

TALK SAFE. I will use a hands-free cell phone system while driving, and will not text or use a handset unless I pull over.

PPLAN AHEAD. I will give myself an extra 5 minutes to get to anydestination.

Go to www.state.nj.us/mvc/Licenses/stop_sign_pledge.htm to take the STOP FOR NIKHIL SAFETY PLEDGE.

If you are eligible to vote in New Jersey, you may register to vote at any MVC Agency while applying for/renewing a license or non-driver identication card. The NJ MVC will report the information to the New Jersey Division of Elections. 1-877-NJ1-877-NJVOTER (1-877-658-6837).

SAFETY PLEDGE TO NIKHIL

VOTER REGISTRATION33

http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/Licenses/stop_sign_pledge.htm

Ifanapplicantpassestheroadtest,theexaminerwillissueanauthorizationforlicensing.Thepermit,authorizationand6PointsofIDVerificationmustbetakentoamotorvehicleagencytoobtainthedigitaldriverlicense(DDL).

TheMVCwill licenseasuccessfulapplicantforaClassDbasicdriver licenseorClassEmotorcyclelicenseasaprobationarydriveriftheapplicanthasneverbeen licensedtodriveamotorvehicle inthisoranyotherstate.TheMVCwillmonitorhis/herdrivinghabitsforoneyear.

Ifanapplicantfailstheroadtest,he/shemustwaitatleasttwoweeksbeforetakingthetestagain.Toreschedulethetest,gotoanyDriverTestingCenterinpersonorscheduleonlineatwww.njmvc.gov.

REASONS FOR REJECTIONMostapplicantsbelievethattheirdrivingperformance istheonlycriteriontheexaminerusestogradetheirroadtest.However,thevehiclemaybethecausefordenialoftheroadtest.Somelicenseapplicantsmaynothavetheopportunitytotakeaninitialroadtestbecauseanexaminerconsidersthevehicleunsuitableorunsafeforthetest.

HerearesomeofthemorecommonreasonstheMVCrejectsroadtestvehicles: Improper,expiredornoinspectionsticker.

Lackofexamineraccesstofootbrakeorparkingbrake.

Anydefectorconditionthataffectsthesafeoperationofthetestvehicle,suchasbutnotlimitedto:

Poorbrakes(pedalmustnotfadeorgotothefloorboard) Dashboardbrakewarninglighton Parkingbrake,brakelights,orsignallightsnotworking Unsafetires(smooth,cut,badlyworn) Vehicleinteriorisnotinreasonablycleancondition Vehiclefailedinspection,andmotoristdoesnotbringtheVehicle

InspectionReportissuedbytheinspectionstationtoroadtestarea Fastengineidle(cannotjudgespeedcontrol) Missingseatbelts(seatbeltsarerequiredonallvehicles

manufacturedafterJuly1,1966) Tintingondriverand/orfrontdoorwindows Missingrear-viewmirrors-interiorand/ordriverdoor Anybrokenorcrackedwindowglass


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Additionalitemsformotorcycleandmopedtestsonly: Lackofequipmentrequiredbystateregulations.

Nohelmet.

Unapprovedgogglesorfaceshield(onlyappliestomotorcycletesting).

Nobellorhorn(butnotasirenorwhistle)thatcanbeheard100feetaway.

See motorcycle section for more specific information.


Chapter 3

SafedrivingistheresponsibilityofallindividualswhooperateavehicleonNewJerseyroads.Therulesoftheroadmustbeobeyedatalltimesandlawsmustbestrictlyfollowed.Amotoristmustensurethesafetyofallpassengerswhoareridinginhis/hervehicleandbemindfuloftheothermotoristswhosharetheroadeachday.

BUCKLE UP- NEW JERSEYS SEAT BELT LAWUnder state law, the driver and all passengers of a passenger vehicle (e.g.car,van,pickup truckandSUV)mustwearaseatbelt.The failureofadriver,front-seatpassengerandchildrenunderage18towearaseatbeltisaprimaryoffense.Thedriver isresponsibleforallpassengersunderage18.Front-seatpassengers18yearsofageandoverareresponsibleforthemselves.Apoliceofficercanstopamotoristsolely foraviolationof theseatbelt law.Underasecondary law,allunbuckledbackseatoccupants18yearsofageandolder,maybeissuedasummonsifthevehicleisstoppedforanotherreason.MotoristswithGDLpermitsorprobationarylicensesmustuseseatbelts.Additionally,theymustrequireallpassengersseatedanywhere inthevehicletouseseatbelts.(N.J.S.A.39:3-76.2f,39:3-13,39:3-13.2a,39:3-13.4)

TheexemptionsareanypassengervehiclemanufacturedbeforeJuly1,1966,apassengervehiclethatisnotrequiredtobeequippedwithseatbeltsystemsunder federal law and a physical or medical reason, verified in writing by alicensedphysician,thatmakesthemotoristorpassengerunabletowearaseatbelt.(N.J.S.A.39:3-76.2g)

Thedriverofapassengervehicleincludingcars,vans,pick-uptrucksandutilityvehiclesshallsecureanypassengerusingawheelchair inaproperlyadjustedandfastenedwheelchairandoccupantsecurementdevice.(N.J.S.A.39:3-76.2l)

Seat belts can save a life and improve a motorists chances of surviving acrashby60percent.Amotoristschancesofsurvivingacollisionarethreetofour timesbetter ifhe/she iswearingbothaseatbeltandashoulderstrap.Fastening a seat belt takes only three seconds and reduces the chances ofdeathorseriousinjury.Seatbeltshelpinmanyways,forexample:

Theykeepmotoristsandpassengersfrombeingthrownfromthevehicleinacollision.Ifamotorist/passengerisheldinplace,anyinjurymaybelesssevere.

Theyslowabodydownwiththevehicle.Ifavehiclehitssomething,thevehiclestops,butthepersonkeepsgoingatthesamespeedthatthe

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vehiclewasmoving.Hittingthedashboardorwindshieldat30mphislikefallingfromthetopofathree-storybuilding.

Theykeepamotorist/passengerfromslidingontheseatduringsudden

stopsandturns.Beltsandstrapsalsokeepamotoristinpositionso

he/shecancontrolthevehicle.

TIPS FOR SEAT BELT USE Buckleupwithbothlapandshoulderbeltsoneverytrip.(Airbagsare

supplementalprotectiondevices.)

Wearthelapbeltundertheabdomenandlowacrossthehips.Theshoulderportionshouldcomeoverthecollarbone,awayfromtheneck,andcrossoverthebreastbone.Theshoulderbeltinmostnewvehiclescanbeadjustedonthesidepillartoimprovefit

Knowhowtoadjusttheseatbeltsandhowtoreleasethemifmotorists/passengershavetoquicklygetoutofthevehicle.

Buckleupifridinginthebackseat;usecenterseatbeltsifthoseseatsareused.Seatbeltshelppreventridersfromfallingforward.

Neverputmorethanonepersoninonebelt.

CAR SEATSTrafficaccidentsarealeadingkillerofchildren.Whenridinginavehicle,childrenshouldbeheldinplacebyarestraintsystemthatmeetsallFederalMotorVehicleSafetyStandards.RefertotheparagraphonChildRestraintLaw.

AllchildrestraintsystemsbuiltsinceJanuary1,1981,mustbedesignedtopasstoughsafetytests.Theseseatscarryalabelthatgivesthedateofmanufactureandreads:ThischildrestraintsystemconformstoallapplicableFederalMotorVehicleSafetyStandards.

Therearemanytypesandstylesofcarseats.Whilesomeseatsaredesignedtobeusedfacingforwardonceachildhasreachedtheappropriateweight,aninfantseatmustneverbe faced forward.Todosowouldbeverydangerous.Alwayscheckthelabelonacarseattofindoutthesizeandweightofthechildtheseatisdesignedtoprotect.


Usingthecarseateverytimeachildridesinthevehicle-andusingitcorrectlyeach time - is very important for the safety of the child. Always read theinstructions that come with the seat and follow them very carefully. Correctuseofthecarseatisthebestprotectionamotoristcanofferachild.Formoreinformationonchildcarseats,contacttheDivisionofHighwayTrafficSafetyat(800) 422-3750 orvisitwww.njsaferoads.com.

CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY LAWThe New Jersey child passenger safety law [N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2a(a) to 39:3-76.2a(d)] states:

Childrenunderageeightwhoarelessthan57inches(4feet9inches)tallmustrideineither:

a) Afederallyapprovedforwardfacingchildpassengerrestraintsystemthatisequippedwithafive-pointharnessinarearseatofthemotorvehicle.Oncetheyoutgrowthetopheightorweightrecommendationsmadebythechildpassengerrestraintsystemmanufacturer,childrenmustride inafederallyapprovedboosterseat(inarearseatofthemotorvehicle);OR

b)Afederallyapprovedboosterseat(inarearseatofthemotorvehicle).

Childrenunderagefourwhoweighlessthan40poundsmustride:a) Inafederallyapprovedrearfacingchildpassengerrestraintsystem

thatisequippedwithafive-pointharnessinarearseatofthemotorvehicle.Oncetheyoutgrowthetopheightorweightrecommendationspostedbythemanufacturerofthechildpassengerrestraintsystem,children must ride in a federally approved forward facing childpassengerrestraintsystemthatisequippedwithafive-pointharnessinarearseatofthemotorvehicle;OR

b)In a federally approved forward facing child passenger restraintsystemthatisequippedwithafive-pointharnessintherearseatofthemotorvehicle.

Childrenunderage twowhoweigh less than30poundsmust ride inafederally approved rear facing child passenger restraint system that isequippedwithafive-pointharness.

http://www.njsaferoads.com

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All children under age eight must be seated in a rear seat. If there are norear seats in the motor vehicle in which children under age eight are riding,thechildrenmustbesecured ina federallyapprovedchildpassenger restraintsystemorboosterseat inafrontseatof themotorvehicle. However,childrencannotbesecured ina rear facingchildpassenger restraintsystem ina frontseatofanymotorvehiclethat isequippedwithapassenger-sideairbagthat isnotdisabledorturnedoff.

Failure to comply with this law can subject a person to a fine of not lessthan$50normorethan$75,plusfeesandcourtcosts. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2d)

AIR BAGSAirbagsarestandardequipmentinalmostallnewvehiclesandaredesignedtosupplementseatbeltsinfrontalcrashes.Federalsafetystandardsrequiredthatmanufacturers equip all new passenger cars and light trucks with air bags by1999. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,statisticsshow thatbetween1986and2000,frontairbagssaved the livesof5,303front-seatriders.

Air bags inflate at speeds of up to 200 mph to protect adults in a front-endcollision.Anaverage-sizedadultwho iscorrectlybelted isnot likelytocome incontactwiththeairbaguntilitisfullyinflated.

Whenairbagsarecombinedwithlap/shoulderseatbelts,theyhavesavedmanyadult livesand preventedmany injuries in motor vehicle crashes. However, airbagscouldseriouslyinjureorkillchildrenwhoaresittinginthefrontseat.

In1995, theNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministration (NHTSA)allowedcutoffswitches inpickuptrucks,sportscarsandautoswithnobackseat. InJan-uary1998,itallowedrepairshopsanddealerstoinstalltheswitchesinvehiclesaftertheappropriateapplicationwasmadeforpeopleinthesecategories:

Driver-and passenger-side air bags: For individuals with medicalconditions when the risks of a deploying air bag exceed the risks ofimpactingthesteeringwheel,dashboardorwindshield.

Driver-side air bags only: For individuals who cannot properly operatethevehicleandkeepatleast10inchesbetweenthecenterofthesteeringwheelandthecenterofthebreastbone.

Note:A person operating an autocycle shall not permit a child to be a passenger in the autocycle if the child would be required to be secured in a child passenger restraint system, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2a.


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BRAKESA motorist should be able to brake smoothly and quickly. If the vehicle pullstoonesidewhen itstopsoramotoristfeelsatautpedalorhearsanunusualsquealingorgrinding,thebrakesmustbechecked.Withconventionaldiscanddrum brakes, amotoristshouldpump themgentlyafterdriving throughwatertotestthemanddrythemout. Ifthebrakesarehithard,theycould lockup.Amotoristshouldbeabletostopwithin25feetat20mph.Thiscanbetriedinanemptyparkinglot.Chalkmarkscanbemadeonthesurfacetoseeifthevehiclecanstopwithinthatdistance.

Ifavehiclehasanantilockbrakingsystem(ABS),thebrakescanbetestedbyapplyingsteadypressuretothebrakepedal.AmotoristshouldneverpumpanABSor jerkthesteeringwheelwhenbraking.Onverysoftsurfaces,suchasloosegravelorunpackedsnow,anABSsystemmayactuallylengthenstoppingdistance. In wet or slippery conditions, a motorist should still drive carefully,always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and maintain a speedconsistentwiththeroadconditions.

BRAKE LIGHTSIfavehiclesbrakelightsarenotworking,someonemaycrashintoitfromtheback.Amotoristshouldhavesomeonehelptocheckthebrakelights.Replacebrokenlightcovers.Theymaycauseaglarethataffectsthemotoristinback.

HEADLIGHTSBright and dim lights must work and be in line. A motorist can check themagainstthegaragewalloronparkedvehicles.Lightsshouldbekeptclean. Ifothermotorists flash their lightswhileamotorists lightsareon lowbeam, itcouldmeanthatthelightsareoutofline.

HORNAhornshouldnotbeoverused,butamotoristshouldcheck itoften tomakesureitworks.Usethehorntosignalwhenpassingorwhencomingoutofablindalley,curveordriveway.

STEERINGOnstraight level roadsavehicleshouldholdastraightcourse.The frontendshouldnotvibrate(shimmy).Thesteeringshouldrespondtoamotoriststurnswithouttoomuchplayinthesteeringwheel.


The Rosa-Bonilla Family Act (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, N.J.S.A. 39:3-41, N.J.S.A. 39:3-12.6) requires the Motor Vehicle Commission to educate motorists about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning from motor vehicles and techniques for the safe operation and proper maintenance of a motor vehicle.

CarbonCarbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is present in a vehicles exhaust. Modern vehicles are equipped with pollution controls that greatly reduce the amount of CO that is emitted from the tailpipe. However, certain conditions can cause dangerous levels of CO to accumulate in or around a vehicle, with potentially fatal results. These conditions can include:

Operating a vehicle with an exhaust leak or poorly tuned engine Operating a vehicle with the trunk or rear tailgate open Operating a vehicle with holes in the body of the vehicle Idling a vehicle in a garage or confined space, even with the outside garage door open Operating a vehicle with a tailpipe that is blocked by debris, including snow, leaves or waterSomeSome of the most common symptoms of CO poisoning are listed below. It is important to understand that CO can kill even before any of these symptoms are noticed:

Headache Dizziness Loss of consciousness Nausea/vomiting Chest pain Confusion

If you suspect that someone is suffering from CO poisoning, it is important to immediately remove that person from the source of the CO and call 911 for immediate medical attention. If you are in a vehicle, turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and try to get the victim to breathe fresh air while you wait for help.

CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

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AREA OF FORWARD VISION

BLIND AREABLIND AREA

AREA OF REARVIEW

MIRROR VISION

LEFTSIDE

MIRROR

RIGHTSIDE

MIRROR

BLIND SPOTS WHILE DRIVING

STARTING A PARKED CARBefore getting into a vehicle, look behind it and in front of it. There are blindspots once a motorist is behind the wheel. Children may be there. There alsomay be bottles, cans, bicycles or other things that cannot be seen from themotoristsseat.

STARTING CHECKLIST Allwindowsshouldbecleanandnothingshouldblockamotoristsvision.

Theseatmustbeadjustedsoamotoristcanreachallpedalsandcontrolseasily.(Formostmotorists,theseatmaybeadjustedsohe/sheissittinganarmslengthfromsteeringwheel).

Insideandoutsiderearviewmirrorsshouldbeadjusted.

Seatbeltsandshoulderharnessesshouldbefastenedsothattheyare firm andcomfortable.

Thevehicleshouldbeinparkorneutralgearandtheparkingbrake shouldbeset.

Doorsshouldbelocked.


Amotoristshouldkeepgoodposturewhiledriving.Theseatshouldbeadjustedso that themotoristcan reach the footpedalseasily.Themotoristshouldbecomfortablebehind thewheel.He/sheshouldnothave tostrain toreach thegear shift levers, turn signals or dashboard controls. A motorist is properlypositionedwhenhe/shecanseeclearlyandcanglancetotherear.

Ifamotoristwearsglasses,he/sheshouldadjustthem.Morethan95percentoftheinformationamotoristneedsisvisual.Tofightglareatnight,coloredlensesshouldbeavoidedastheydistortcolor.Anti-reflectivecoatingsshouldbeusedon lenses.Thiswillhelpeliminate internal reflections ineyeglassesandmayhelpnightdriving.Amotoristshouldhaveaneyecheckupeverytwoyears.Asamotoristages,visualclaritydeclinesandperipheralvisionbecomeslessdistinct.Forexample,a60-year-oldperceiveslightaboutathirdaswellasa20-year-old.

Insideandoutsidemirrorsshouldbeadjustedtoreduceblindspots.Theseareareaswhereamotoristcannotseebehindhis/hervehicle(onbothsides)throughthemirror.Amotoristcancheckthisbyturninghis/herhead.Theoutsidemirrorshouldbeadjustedsothatthemotoristcanseethetipofthedriver-sidefrontdoorhandleinthelowerrightofthemirror.Thiswillallowthemotoristtoseepartofthelanesoftraffictotheleftandrearofthevehicle.

Afterstartingtheengine,amotoristshouldmakesurehis/herpathisclearbyturningand lookingback.Amotoristshouldnotdependon rearviewmirrors.Amotoristmustalsobesure tocheck forpedestriansand lessconspicuousvehicles,suchasbicyclesandmopeds.Amotoristshouldgivethepropersignalanddrivewithcaution.

Whenontheroad,amotoristcancheckthevehiclesmirrorsbylettingavehiclepassontheleft.Asthepassingvehicledisappearsfromtheinsiderearviewmirror,amotoristshouldbeabletoseeitsfrontbumperintheoutsiderearviewmirror.

IDLING YOUR VEHICLENewJerseylawrequiresallmotoriststorestrictvehicleidlingtothreeminutesorless.(N.J.A.C.7:27-15.8)

Idlingmorethanthreeminutesisunnecessaryandharmfultoyourvehicleandyourhealth.Vehicleandpropertyownersfacefinesof$250to$1,000foreachviolationofthislaw.(N.J.S.A.39:3-70.2)

Therearesomespecificsituationsinwhichavehiclemayidleforanextendedtime,suchaswhenstuck intraffic,oratdrive-thruestablishments.Seewww.StopTheSoot.orgforacompletelistingofexemptions.

Sodontforget:IdlingStinks,anditsagainstthelawturnthekeyandbeidlefree!

http://www.StopTheSoot.orghttp://www.StopTheSoot.org

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Steering

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STEERINGHAND POSITIONAmotoristsgriponthesteeringwheelisimportant.Thesteeringwheelcanbethoughtofasthefaceofaclock.Fornormaldriving,amotoristshouldgripthesteeringwheelbytheoutsiderimatthe9and3oclockpositions,keepinghis/herthumbalongthefaceofthewheel.Grippingthesteeringwheelasdescribeddiminishes the risk of hand, wrist or arm injury if the air bag is deployed. Amotoristshouldneverturnthewheelwhilegrippingitfromtheinsideoftherim,handfacinginward.Thesteeringwheelshouldbeheldfirmlybutnottootight,assteadyaspossibleasthevehiclesspeed increases.Bothhandsshouldbekeptonthewheelatalltimes,exceptwhenshiftinggearsorgivinghandsignals.

Themotoristshouldkeepthevehicleinthecenterofthelanethatitistraveling.Onatwo-laneroadwithtrafficcomingtowardthevehicle,themotoristshouldkeeptotheright.Onceamotoristfeelshowthevehiclereactstosteering,he/shewillbereadytopracticeturning,parkingandothermovements.

It takespractice toget thefeelofsteering. If thevehiclehasantilockbrakes(ABS),themotoristshouldneverviolentlyjerkthesteeringwheelwhilebraking.(Seeprevioussection,Brakes)

HAND-OVER-HAND STEERINGHand-over-hand steering permits a motorist to make steering adjustmentsrangingfromveryminoruptoahalfturnofthewheel,whilekeepingbothhandson the wheel. If turning through a slight curve, both hands will typically retaintheir original grip on the wheel, making only slight finger or wrist adjustmentsas necessary to maintain the path of travel. However, when moving through aturn, thehandsmaymoveasmuchas165degrees.Themotorist initiates theturnbypushingthewheelupfromthe9or3oclockpositiontoward12oclock,andtheoppositehandcrossesoveranddowntothe9or3oclockposition,as


appropriatetoprovideadditional inputortostabilizesteering.Theoriginalhandthenreturnstotheoriginalstartpositionof9or3oclock.Theprocessisreversedtoreturntoastraightpath,orthewheelcanbeallowedtoslipthroughthefingers(controlledslipping)tostraightenwhencomingoutofaturn,whilebothhandsarealwaysonthewheeltomakeadjustmentsasnecessary.Hand-over-handsteeringis particularly well-suited for precision maneuvers, steering through curves,intersectionentryandexit,andskidrecovery.

STOPPING DISTANCESThereisnosimplewaytotellexactlyhowlongitwilltakeavehicletostopatacertainspeed.Stoppingdistancedependson:

Motoristreactiontime.

Weatherandvisibilityconditions.

Vehicleweight.

Brakeconditions.

Conditionandtypeoftires.

Roadwayconditions.

Speed.Onepointissure:Thefasteravehicleisgoing,thelongeritwilltakeittostop.Whenamotoristmuststopquickly,speedcanbethedifferencebetween lifeanddeath.

STOPPING DISTANCES ON DRY SURFACES FOR PASSENGER VEHICLES

Speed Reaction distance Braking distance Total

10 mph 11 ft 8 ft 19 ft

20 mph 22 ft 31 ft 53 ft

30 mph 33 ft 69 ft 102 ft

40 mph 44 ft 123 ft 167 ft

50 mph 55 ft 192 ft 247 ft

60 mph 66 ft 277 ft 343 ft

70 mph 77 ft 376 ft 453 ft

Based on a reaction time of 3/4 second, which is typical for most motorists undermosttrafficconditions.Avehicletravels88feetpersecondat60mph.Decelerationisapproximately14feetpersecond.Seechapter4formoreinformationonstoppingandchapter5forinformationaboutfollowingdistancesandstoppingatnight.

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PROPER BRAKINGTheuseofbrakesmayseemsimple,but it isnot.Amotoristshouldknowthetypeofbrakingsystemthathis/hervehicleuses.Itcouldbeaconventionaldrumanddiscbrakesystemoranantilockbrakingsystem(ABS).Whetherthevehicleisfront-orrear-wheeldrivedoesnotdetermineproperbraking.

Manynewmotoristsmakethecommonmistakeofslammingthebrakepedal,evenifthereisnoemergency.Thevehiclewilljerktoastopquicklyandwearoutbrakesandtires.Steady,gentlepressureshouldbeappliedtothebraketobringthevehicletoacontrolledstop.WithanABS,amotoristshouldnotpumpthebrakesorviolentlyjerkthewheel.AnABS-equippedvehiclemaygooutofcontrolatonly35mphifamotoristviolentlyjerksthesteeringwheelandbrake,evenondrypavement.NewmotoristsshouldpracticehardbrakingandsteeringinanemptyparkinglotorsimilaropenspaceuntiltheyareaccustomedtotheABS.Amotoristshouldalwaysusehis/herrightfootforboththebrakeandthegaspedal. If thevehicle isequippedwithamanual transmission, the leftfootshouldbeusedfortheclutch.

DRIVING SIGNALSA motorist should always give a proper signal when turning, changinglanes, stopping or slowing down. Most vehicles have turn signals and amotoristshouldalwaysusethem.Amotoristshould turn on the turn signal atleast 100 feet before turningandbesuretocancelthesignalaftermakingaturn.Notdoingsocouldmisleadothermotorists.(N.J.S.A.39:4-126)

New Jersey law requires a motorist to know the correct hand signals forstoppingandturning,whicharestandard inallstates.Togiveahandsignal,amotorist should put his/her arm well out of the vehicle so that it is visible toothermotorists.


Driver Signals

BDMN_driver_signals_110907

STOP

RIGHT TURN

LEFT TURN

Stop or slowing down:handandarmdownward,palmfacingtotherear.

Right turn:handandarmupward.

Left turn:handandarmstraightout.

Another signal is the horn, which is a warning signal. It callsattentiontowhatthemotoristisdoing.Motoristsmaysoundthehornwhenpassinganother vehiclewhennot inabusinessorresidential zone. Under normal conditions, the horn should beable to be heard for at least 200 feet. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-69) Onlyemergencyvehiclesmayusesirens,whistlesorbells.

Bicyclists, skateboarders and inline skaters also use the hand signals noted above. In addition, instead of extending the left hand and arm upward to indicate a right turn, bicyclists, skateboarders and inline skaters may extend the right hand and arm straight out to indicate a right turn.

DRIVING IN REVERSEBeforedrivinginreverse,amotoristmustbesurethatthepathisclear.Thiscanbedonebyusingthemirrorsandturningtocheck.He/shemustbe very careful because the view to therear islimited. In reverse, turning thewheeltotherightwilldirectthevehicletotheright.Steeringtotheleftwilldirectthevehicletotheleft.Ifamotoristdoesnotturnthewheelwhileinreverse,thevehiclewillmovestraightbackward.

To drive in reverse, a motorists head and body should be turned to therightuntilhe/shecanseeclearlythroughthebackwindowof the vehicle without the use of mirrors. The motorists righthand and arm shouldbe placed over the back of the frontpassenger seat; the left handshould grasp the top of the steeringwheel.

Thisisthepositionamotoristshouldbeintoreverseinastraightline,withsight seeing correction made as needed. A vehicle should be driven slowly in reverse typically, walking speed (2 to 4 mph).

slowlywhileturningthesteeringwheeltotheright,stoppingseveralinchesfromtherightcurborstreetedge.Themotoristshouldnextmovethevehicleforwardwhileturningthesteeringwheeltotheleft.Finally,themotoristshouldstraightenthevehicleswheelsas it faces in thedirectionhe/shewants togo.This isacomplete3-Point(orK)Turn.AnewmotoristwillberequiredtomakethisturnduringMVCsroadtest.

PARKINGWhenparking,amotoristshouldalwaysset thehandbrakeandput thevehicleinparkor,withamanual transmission, in reverseor lowgear.Thereareseveralimportantstepsforamotorist tofollowwhenparkinghis/hervehicleonastreetwithacurb:

When parking a vehicle facing downhill:Thehandbrakeshouldbesetandthevehicleswheelsshouldbeturnedtowardthecurb.Thevehicleshouldbeinparkor,withamanualtransmission,inreverse.

When parking a vehicle facing uphill: Thehandbrakeshouldbeset

andthevehicleswheelsshouldbeturnedawayfromthecurb.Thevehicleshouldbeinparkor,withamanualtransmission,inlow.

3 Point Turn

BDMN_3pt_turn_110907

32

1

THE 3-POINT TURN (K TURN)Whenturningavehiclearound,amotoristshouldstartfromtherightedgeoftheroad.Chooseasafespotwithgoodvisibility inbothdirections. Ifthere isnoothertraffic,themotoristshouldsignalleftandmoveforwardslowlywhileturningthesteeringwheeltothe left.Thevehicleshouldbestoppedseveralinches from the left curb or street edge. The motorist should then back up

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ANGLE PARKINGAngleparkingisoftenusedinparkinglotsofshoppingcentersandsometimesatcurbs.

Amotoristshouldfollowtheseruleswhenenteringanangleparkingspacetohis/herright:

Watchfortraffic bothaheadandbehind.

Signalandbegintoslowdown.

Makesuretherearofthevehiclewillcleartheparkedvehicles.

Steersharplyintotheparkingspace,andthenstraightenthewheels centeringthevehicleintheparkingspace.

Shifttopark,orreverseifstandardtransmission,andapplytheparkingbrake.

Amotoristshouldfollowtheserulesbeforebackingoutofanangleparkingspace: Walkaroundtomakesurenothingisinthevehiclesway.

Slowlymovethevehicleinreverseandbesurethatthelaneisclearoftraffic

Tapthehorntowarnnearbypedestrians.

Whenabletoseepastthetopsofvehiclesparkednexttothevehicle,stopandlookagain.

Lookbackandtoeachsideforothermotorists.

Rememberthatthefrontofthevehiclewillswingoppositetothedirectionoftheturn.

Backupslowlywhileturninguntilthevehiclesleftfrontwheelpassestherearbumperofthevehicleparkedontheleft.

Straightenthewheelsasthevehiclecomesbackintothelaneoftraffic

PARALLEL PARKINGParallelparkingisthemostcommontypeofparkingoncitystreets.AmotoristmustbeabletoparallelparkavehicleinordertopasstheMVCsroadtest.Thistakesthemostpracticeforanewmotorist.Amotoristshouldpracticeoften,inanemptyparkinglotatfirst.Flagsormarkers25feetapartmaybeusedtoshowwheretheothervehicleswouldbe.Ifamotoristhitsthesesigns,he/sheisnotreadyforparkingbetweenrealvehiclesandshouldkeeppracticing.Theslowerandsmootheramotoristbacksintoaparkingspace,theeasieritistopark.Toproperlyparallelpark,amotoristshould:

Findaparkingspacethatislargeenoughtofit thevehicle.

Signalforastopandsignaltotherighttoalertmotoriststhatthevehicle


Parallel Parking

P R N D 3 2 1

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BDMN_parallelparking_110907

willbackuptotheright.

Pullupalongside(parallel)abouttwotofourfeetfromthevehicleinfront.

Turnandchecktoseethatthewayisclearbehindthevehiclebeforebackingup.

Turnhis/herbodytolookouttherearwindowofthevehicle.Beginbackingupslowlyforabouttwofeetandturnthesteeringwheelallthewaytotheright.

Whenthefrontofthevehiclehasclearedtherearbumperofthevehicleinfront,stopandchecktheangle.

Makesuretherightbackwheelhasnothitthecurb.

Turnthesteeringwheelallthewaytotheleftwhilebeginningtobackupslowly.

Makesurethevehiclecanclearitsbackbumper.

Whenthevehicleisinline,stop.Besurenottohitthevehicleinback.

Turnthevehicleswheelsstraight,anddrivetothecenteroftheparkingspace.Thevehiclestiresshouldbenomorethansixinchesfromthecurb.

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Chapter 4

SPEED CONTROLExceedingthespeedlimitisacommoncontributingfactoroffatalandothertypesofaccidents.Amotoristmustalwaysobeythespeedlimit.Speedaffectsalmosteverythingthatcanhappenwhendriving.Agoodruleistokeepupwiththeflowoftrafficatanylegalspeed.Inordertomakesafeemergencystopswhennecessary,itisimportanttokeepenoughdistancefromsurroundingtraffic.NewJerseylawsetstopspeedlimitsforanygivenroad,street,highwayorfreeway.

25SPEEDLIMITS

25 mph School zones, businessor residential districts

35SPEEDLIMITS

35 mph Suburban business and residential districts

50SPEEDLIMITS

50 mph Non-posted rural roadways

55SPEEDLIMITS

55 mph Certain state highways (as posted) and interstates

65SPEEDLIMITS

65 mph Certain interstate highways (as posted)

Motoristspaydoublefinesforexceedingthe65mphlimitby10milesperhouror more. Double fines also apply tomostothermovingviolationscommittedina65mphzone.(N.J.S.A.39:4-98.6)

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NEW JERSEY SPEED LIMITS (UNLESS OTHERWISE POSTED) (N.J.S.A.39:4-98)Neverdrivefasterthanweather,roadorotherconditionssafelyallow,regardlessof the posted speed limit. A motorist should judge his/her speed control byexisting conditions. A motorist should slow down enough to be able to seeclearlyandstopquicklyintraffic.Failuretodosocanresultinamovingviolation.

Alwaysslowdown: Onnarroworwindingroads.

Atintersectionsorrailroadcrossings.

Onhills.

Atsharporblindcurves.

Wheretherearepedestriansordrivinghazards.

Whentheroadiswetorslippery.

Ifvehicleproblemspreventamotoristfromkeepingupwiththenormalflowoftraffic,he/sheshouldpullofftheroadandactivatehazardlights.

DRIVING TOO SLOWLYAmotoristshouldalways try tokeepupwith thenormalflowof traffic,whilenotexceedingthepostedspeedlimit.Somecollisionsarecausedbydrivingtooslowlyandbackinguptraffic.Whenroadsurfacesandtrafficarenormal,NewJerseylawprohibitsblockingtrafficthroughslowdriving.

SAFE CORRIDORS(N.J.S.A.39:4-203.5)Inanefforttoimprovehighwaysafety,NewJerseyinitiatedtheSafeCorridorsProgram, which was signed into law in July 2003. The Safe Corridors lawdoubles fines on various state highways for a variety of driving offenses,including speeding and aggressive driving. Highways are designated as safecorridors based on statistics showing crash rates 50 percent over the staterate and 1,000 or more crashes reported over a three-year period. TheCommissioner of Transportation has the authority to designate highways asnecessary,aswellas to remove those thatshow improvedsafety levels.ThelawtookeffectonFebruary15,2004.AcurrentlistofSafeCorridorhighwaysisavailableontheNewJerseyDepartmentofTransportationWebsiteatwww.nj.gov/transportation.

http://www.nj.gov/transportationhttp://www.nj.gov/transportationhttp://www.njmvc.gov

Passing

PASS WHEN LINE IS BROKEN

BDMN_passing_110907

NO PASSING WITH DOUBLESOLID LINES

DO NOT PASS WHEN LINE

IS SOLID

PASSINGAmotoristmustknow theproper lane fornormaldrivingandhow tochangelanessafely.Therulesforpassingdependonthetypeofroad.Staytotherightoftheroadwayscenterlines.Passingisonlysafewhenthereisnooncomingtraffic.

Watchforthefollowinglanemarkings:(N.J.S.A.39:4-86) Both center lines are solid:Nopassingallowed.

One center line is broken:Passingisallowedonlyonthesidewiththebrokenline.

Both center lines are broken:Passingisallowedonbothsides.

Note:Allpassingmustbecompletedbeforethecenterlinesaresolidagain.

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PASS ONLY WHEN SAFEMostpassingshouldbeontheleft.Passingontherightisallowedonlyonroadswithmorethanonelanegoinginthesamedirection,ifvehiclesontheroadwayaremovingintwoormoresubstantiallycontinuouslinesorwhenthemotoristaheadismakingaleftturnandthereisroomtopass.Neverpassontherightshoulderoftheroad.Thisisagainstthelaw.(N.J.S.A.39:4-85)

Amotoristshouldnotpass: Onahilloracurveoratanytimehe/shecannotseefarenoughahead.

Atastreetcrossingorintersection.

Atarailroadcrossing.

Onnarrowbridgesorinunderpassesortunnels.

Whenasignprohibitspassingorcenterlinesrestrictpassing.

Whenbehindavehiclethathasstoppedtoletapedestriancross.

KEEPING TO THE RIGHTThe laws of New Jersey require motorists to keep to the right, except whenpassing.Motoristsmustdriveontherighthalfoftheroadwayunlessdrivingonaone-waystreet.Motoristsmustdriveavehicleascloseaspossibletotheright-handedgeorcurboftheroadway,exceptwhenovertakingandpassinganothervehicle.(N.J.S.A.39:4-82)

Onamulti-laneroadway,motoristsmustdriveinthe lanenearesttotheright-handedgeorcurboftheroadwaywhenthelaneisavailablefortravel,exceptwhenovertakinganothervehicleorinpreparationforaleftturn.(N.J.S.A.39:4-88)

YIELDING THE RIGHT-OF-WAYAlthoughlawsgoverntheright-of-way,amotoristshouldalwaysbepreparedtoyield.Thesebasicrulesalwaysapply:

Emergency vehicles:whenpolicecars,fire enginesandambulances aregivingwarningsigns(sirens,flashing lights).

Trains:whenatrainisapproachingarailroadcrossing.

Buses:whenre-enteringtheflow oftraffic

Postal vehicles:whenvehicleisseekingtore-entertheflow oftraffic

Motorized or mobility-assistance devices: wheninacrosswalkor seekingtocrossaroad.

Other vehicles that are already in the intersection.


PEDESTRIANS IN A CROSSWALKNewJerseyhasexperiencedalargenumberofpedestrianinjurycrashesandfatalities,ascomparedtothenationasawhole.Themostimportantpedestriansafetymessage forNewJersey residents is:Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. There is no single cause of crashes involving pedestrians.Pedestriansandmotoristsmustalldotheirparttokeeppedestrianssafe.

Amotoristmust: Stopforpedestriansincrosswalks.Failuretostop carriesafine ofupto

$500,upto25daysinjail,communityservice,a drivingprivilegesuspensionofupto6monthsand2points. (N.J.S.A 39:4-36)

Watchforpedestrianswhenturningrightonred.

Obeyspeedlimits.

Besurenottoblockorparkincrosswalks.

Keepthevehicleswindshieldcleanformaximumvisibility.

Bealertforpedestriansatalltimes.

Beawareofareaswherepedestriansaremostlikelytoappear(near schools,towncenters,residentialneighborhoods,parks).

Neverpassanothervehiclethathasstoppedforapedestrian.

Stopforallpedestriansinacrosswalk,eveniftheybegancrossingwithapropersignalandtheyarestillinthecrosswalkwhenthe signalchanges.

Rememberthatpedestriansarethemostvulnerableroadwayusers. Motoristswillbeheldresponsibleformaintainingpedestriansafety.

INTERSECTIONSAnintersectioniswheretwoormoreroadscrossormergeatangles.Asmostcollisionsoccuratintersections,amotoristshouldbeawareofthethreetypesof intersectionsandknowhowtosafelynavigatethroughthem.Asinglesolidwhite line across a road at an intersection means that a motorist must stopbehindthelineforatrafficsignalorsign.

CONTROLLEDAnintersectioniscontrollediftherearetrafficsignalsorsignsinanydirectionorcontrolledbyapoliceofficer.Amotoristmustobeythesignalsandsigns.Atacontrolledintersection,amotoristmustyieldforcertainconditions.Atamulti-waystoporstopintersection,amotoristmustyieldtothemotoristontherightif

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bothmotoristsgetthereatthesametime.Amotoristshouldalsoyieldtoanothermotoristalreadystoppedattheintersection.Atanintersectioncontrolledbyayieldsign,amotoristmustslowdownandyield to trafficon the intersectingroadway,evenifhe/shehastostop.Whenmakingaleftturnatanintersection,amotoristmustyieldtooncomingtrafficandtostopforpedestrianswithinthecrosswalk.

Amotoristisprohibitedfromenteringorcrossinganintersectingstreetmarkedwith a stop sign unless he or she first brings the vehicle to a completestopat a point within five feet of the nearest crosswalk or stop line markeduponthepavementatthenearsideoftheintersectionstreet.Themotoristmayonlyproceed after yielding the right-of-way to all traffic on the intersectionstreet,whichissocloseastoconstituteanimmediatehazard.

Note:Drivingonprivatepropertytoavoidatrafficsignalorsign isamotorvehicleviolation.(N.J.S.A.39:4-66.2)

UNCONTROLLEDAnintersectionisuncontrolledwhentwoormoreroadsjoinandthereisnotrafficsignalorregulatorydevice.Amotoristmustbeverycarefulwhenapproachingthesetypesofintersections.Mostofthetimetherewillbeawarningsignpriortoreachingtheintersection.Asamotoristnearsacrossroadthatisnotcontrolled,he/shemustreducespeedandbereadytostopifanytrafficiscomingfromtherightorleft.Amotoristcomingfromaprivateroadordrivewaymustyieldtoalltrafficonthemainroad(althoughamotoristcanneverbesurethatwilloccur).Asageneralrule,thevehicleontheleftshouldyieldtothevehicleontheright.Whenatrafficsignalisnotilluminatedbecauseofapowerfailureorothermalfunction,thetrafficsignalisobservedasa4-waystopsignal.(N.J.S.A.39:4-81)

BLINDBuildings,parkedvehiclesorbushesmayobstructamotoristslineofsight.Onruralroadways,treesorcropsmayobstructamotoristslineofsight.Amotoristshould always slow down or stop completely to make sure there is no crosstrafficbeforeproceeding.

TRAFFIC CIRCLETherearenosetrulesfordrivinginto,aroundandoutofatrafficcircleinNewJersey.Commonsenseandcautionmustprevailatalltimes.Inmostcases,thecircleshistoricallyestablishedtrafficflowpatterndictateswhohastheright-of-way.Ifamajorhighwayflowsintoandthroughthecircle,itusuallydominatesthetrafficflowpatternandcommandstheright-of-way.Trafficcontrolsigns,such


Merging Lanes

USE TURN SIGNAL

SPEED UP TO FLOW OF TRAFFIC

SLOW TO SPEED LIMIT OF EXIT LANE

USE TURN SIGNAL

AVOID STOPPING IN THE ENTRY AND EXIT LANES

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asstoporyieldsigns,attheentrancestothecirclealsogovernwhichmotoristhastheright-of-way.Neverenteratrafficcirclewithoutcheckingallsignsanddeterminingtheintentionsofthemotoristsalreadymovingwithinthecircle.

Wheneveramotoristisindoubtconcerningwhohastheright-of-wayinacircle,he/sheshouldexerciseextremecautionandrememberthebasicrulegoverninganyuncontrolled intersection:Thevehicletothe leftyieldstheright-of-waytothevehicleapproachingfromtheright.

ENTERING HIGHWAYS, PARKWAYS AND TURNPIKESHighways,parkwaysandturnpikesarehigh-speed(upto65mph)dividedroad-waysandgenerallyhavemultiple lanes.Trafficoneachsideof thedividewilltravel inonlyonedirection.Therearenodirect intersections.Motoristsentertheseroadwaysbywayofaccelerationlanes,whichareextralanesathighwayentrancesusedbymotoriststospeedupto jointheflowoftraffic.Amotoristmustyieldtotrafficalreadytravelingonthemainroadbeforemoving intotheproperlane.Keepthefollowingpointsinmindwhenenteringahighway,parkwayorturnpike:

Obeypostedadvisoryspeedlimits(ifany)attheentranceramp.

Speeduptotheflow oftraffic when leavingtheaccelerationlane.

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Merging Lanes

USE TURN SIGNAL

SPEED UP TO FLOW OF TRAFFIC

SLOW TO SPEED LIMIT OF EXIT LANE

USE TURN SIGNAL

AVOID STOPPING IN THE ENTRY AND EXIT LANES

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Avoidcomingtoacomplete stop in the acceleration lane.

Yieldtotraffic and enterthe right-hand lane when safe.

LEAVING HIGHWAYS, PARKWAYS ANDTURNPIKESIn most cases, exit ramps or deceleration lanes, which are extra lanes at a

highway exit, are located on the right-hand side of the roadway. A motoristshouldalwayswatchforsignsthatdirectwheretoexittheroadway.Ifamotoristmissesanexitramponahighway,parkwayorturnpike,he/sheshouldgotothenextexit.

Keepthefollowingpointsinmindwhenleavingahighway,parkwayorturnpike: Startslowingdownwhenenteringadecelerationlane.

Obeythepostedadvisoryspeedlimitofthedecelerationlane

Whentheexitislocatedontheleftofaroadway,lookforsignsthatwilldirecttraffic totheproperlaneforexiting.

Ifyoumissanexit,goontothenextone.

Neverbackuponanexitrampordecelerationlane.


SPECIAL HIGHWAY, PARKWAY AND TURNPIKECONDITIONSWEAVE LANEAweavelaneisbothanentranceandanexitforanexpressway.Trafficmaycomeontoandleavetheexpresswayatthesamelocation.Thistrafficweavecausesconflicts,bothformotoristsusingaweave laneandthoseontheexpresswayandentrance ramp (in termsofspeedandspaceadjustments).Themotoristentering from the entrance ramp must yield the right-of-way to the motoristleavingtheexpressway.

HIGHWAYS THROUGH CITIESThevolumeof trafficmay increasedramatically.Speedsmayslow toacrawl.Amotoristshoulddriveintheleftorcenterlanetoavoidmergeconflictsduringrushhour.Amotoristshouldsearchforexitsearlyandadjustpositionforexit.

DISABLED VEHICLESWhen seeing a disabled vehicle ahead, a motorist should reduce speed andincrease the space between his/her vehicle and the disabled vehicle. Thismayinvolvechanginglanes.Bealertforpedestrians,towtrucksand/orpolicevehicles.Ifamotoristsvehiclebecomesdisabled,he/shemust:

Pulloffasfaraspossibleontotheshoulderormedian. Turnonemergencyflashers. Raisethehoodtosignalforassistance. Stayinthevehicleandlockthedoors. Ifavailable,useacellphonetocallforhelp. Askanyonewhostopstogotoaphoneandcallforassistance. Notgetintoastrangersvehicle.

CONSTRUCTION AREAS

Amotoristshouldalwaysstayalertforconstruction-areawarningsigns.Whencomingacrosstheseareas,amotoristshouldadjustspeedandadjustpositiontomaintainspacearoundhis/hervehicle.

TOLL BOOTHSAmotoristshouldstayalertfortollboothsignsandbeginreducingspeedearly,astrafficmaybebackedupatthebooth.Greenlightsorsignalswillhighlightopenbooths.AmotoristshouldbeawareofEZPassboothsandlanes,includinghigh-

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speedEZPasslanes.Whenexitingtollbooths,amotoristshouldsearchtraffictobothsidesformergingpotential,acceleratesmoothlyandadjustspeed.

CURVESItisimportantforamotoristtoadjuststeeringandspeedwhenapproachingacurveintheroadbecausevehiclestendtokeepgoingstraight.Thebestwaytoenteracurveistoslowdownbeforeenteringandavoiddriftingintoanotherlane.Amotoristshouldalwayswatchforvehiclesthatmaydriftintohis/herlaneaswell.CheckforCurveAheadwarningsignsandrecommendedspeeds.

INTERCHANGESDivided roadwaysarebuilt forexpress traffic.Toease trafficflow, thereareusuallynotrafficlightsordirectintersections.Toenterorexitsuchanexpressway,acloverleafturnisoftennecessary.Amotoristshouldwatchforentranceandexitsignsanddriveslowlyinthecircle,obeyingthepostedspeedlimit.


Right Turn

USE TURN SIGNAL

STAY IN LANE

DO NOT CROSS DIVIDING LINE

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SLOW DOWN

TURNING REGULATIONS

RIGHT TURN ON REDUnless a No Turn on Red sign is posted, New Jersey law authorizes a rightturnonaredlightafteramotoristcomestoafullstopandchecksfortraffic.Amotoristmustyieldtoalloncomingtrafficandpedestriansbeforeturningrightataredlight.Difficult-to-seevehicles,suchasbicyclesandmopeds,mayhaveagreenlight,soitisimportantforamotoristtobeawareoftheirpresence.(N.J.S.A.39:4-115)Alwaysuseaproperturnsignalatleast100feetbeforemakinganyturn,andcancelthesignalaftercompletingtheturn.(N.J.S.A.39:4-126)

RIGHT TURNS(N.J.S.A.39:4-123)Tomakeasaferightturn,amotoristshouldapproachtheintersectionasfartotherightaspossible,keepingneartothecurborparkedvehicles.Themotoristshouldnotswingoutwardorintoanotherlanewhilemakingtherightturn.He/sheshoulddriveuptotheturnasfartotherightaspossible,keepingclosetotherightcurborparkedvehiclesatthecurb.Thisvehiclepositioningpriortoarightturnreducesthechanceofanothervehiclebeinginthespaceontherightasthemotoristmakestheturn.He/sheshouldnotswing intothewrong lanewhilemakingtheturn.

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Left Turn: Cutting Corners

USE TURN SIGNAL

YIELD TOONCOMINGTRAFFIC

DONT CUT CORNERS

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LEFT TURNS(N.J.S.A.39:4-123)Left turns, two vehicles:Whentwovehiclesmeetatanintersectionandbothhave signaled to turn left, extra caution must be applied. When safe, eachmotoristshouldturntotheleftofthecenteroftheintersection.

Left turn from a one-way road on to a one-way road:Approachingtheturnin the left lane, themotoristshould turn into the left laneof the roadhe/sheisentering.

Left turn from a two-way road onto a two-way road:Approachtheturnascloseaspossibletothelinenearesttothecenteroftheroad.Whenturning,thevehicleshouldnotcrosslanemarkings.Themotoristshouldkeeptotherightofthecenterlineoftheroadthatthevehicleisentering.


Left Turn: Four Lane

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YIELD TOONCOMINGTRAFFIC

USE TURN SIGNAL

DONTTURN WIDE

Left turns, between intersections: Between intersections, solid linesshowwhennottopass.However,theselinesmaybecrossedwithcarewhenenteringorleavingdrivewaysinbusinessorresidentialareas.

Left turn from a two-way road onto a four-lane highway: Approachtheturnasclosetothecenterlineoftherightsideoftheroadaspossible.Maketheturnbeforereachingthecenteroftheintersection.

Itisimportantnottocrosslanemarkings.Themotoristshouldturnintothelanenearestthecenterlineoftherightsideoftheotherroad.Thisisthepassinglaneofthefour-lanehighway.Whentrafficpermits,themotoristshouldmovetotheright,outofthepassinglane.

STOPPING REGULATIONSSigns,signalsandtrafficrules indicatewhenamotoristmuststop.Amotoristshouldnevertrytobeatatrafficlightchange.Amotoristmustbecarefulevenifthelightischangingtogreen(freshgreenlight).Theremaybeothervehiclescoming through or still in the intersection. Most accidents at traffic signalshappeninthefirstfewsecondsafterthelighthaschanged.Whenayellowlightfollowsagreenlight,amotoristmuststopbeforeenteringtheintersection,unless

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yellowappearswhenthevehicleistooclosetostopsafely.Ifthelightchangeswhileadriver isalready in the intersection,he/sheshouldgo throughwithcaution.Bealertforastalegreenlight;thisisalightthathasbeengreenforsometime.

Be prepared for it to change to yellow and then red. Slow down andstopaccordingly.

A motorist must stop: Atanintersectionwithastopsign.

Atanintersectionwitharedlighteitherflashing orilluminated.

Atanintersectionwithayellowlightafteragreen,unlesstooclosetostopsafely.

Whenatraffic officer ordersthevehicletostop.

Whenthereisayieldsign,andtraffic doesnotpermitasafemerge.

Whenaschoolbusispickinguporlettingoffchildrenand/orthered lightsareflashing.

Whencomingfromanalley,privatedrivewayorbuilding.

Atabridgespanthatisabouttoopenforboattraffic.

Forablindpedestrianusingawhiteormetallicwalkingcane,oratrainedguidedog,oraguidedoginstructorengagedininstructing aguidedog.

Forapedestrianinacrosswalkoratanintersection.

Foramotorizedwheelchairormobility-assistancedeviceinacrosswalk oratanintersection.

Singlewhitestoplinesshowmotoristswheretostopatstopsignsortrafficsignals.

STOP AT RAILROAD CROSSINGSToensurepublicsafety,theNewJerseyDepartmentofTransportation(NJDOT)andrailroadcompaniesmarkpublichighwayrail-gradecrossings,alsoknownasrailroadcrossings with one or more warning devices. Warning devices include advancewarningsigns,pavementmarkingsinfrontofarailroadcrossing,flashingredlights(usuallyonrailroadcrossingsigns),gatesorgateswithflashingred lights,ringingbellsandflagsignals.

Amotoristmuststopatleast15feetfromrailroadcrossingswhenthereareflashingred lights,ringingbells,descendingorloweredgates,orflagsignals.Flashingredlights, ringing bells, descending gates or gates that have already been loweredindicate thata train iscomingandamotoristmuststop.Amotoristshouldnever


School Bus

CARS MUST STOP 25 FEETAWAY FROM SCHOOL BUS

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crossuntil thegateshavebeen raised, thebellshavestopped ringingand thered lights have stopped flashing. (N.J.S.A. 39:4-127.1). Never race a train. Amotoristcanunderestimatethespeedanddistanceoftrains.Mosttrainsneedmorethanamiletostopiftravelingat60mphormore.

Special Circumstances:Some vehicles, such as school buses, buses or vehicles carrying hazardousmaterials, must always stop at railroad crossings. When driving behind oneof thesevehicles,amotoristmustbeprepared tostop,even ifsignalsdonotindicateatrainiscoming.(N.J.S.A.39:4-128)

Amotoristshouldneverstophis/hervehicleonrailroadtracks.Whencrossingrailroadtracks,amotoristshouldmakesurethereisroomontheothersidetogetcompletelyacross. Ifwarningdevicesactivatewhileamotorist iscrossingrailroadtracks,he/sheshouldimmediatelyproceedtotheotherside.

STOP FOR SCHOOL BUSES(N.J.S.A.39:4-128.1)

Amotoristmuststopforaschoolbuswithflashingredlights.Statelawrequiresmotoriststostopatleast25feetawayifhe/sheistravelingonatwo-laneroador on a multi-lane highway where lanes are only separated by lines or on aprivately maintained road. When traveling on a dual-lane highway, a motoristshouldslowto10mphifontheothersideofasafetyislandorraisedmedian.Schoolbusesareequippedwithyellow (oramber)and redflashing lights.Theyellow (or amber) lights go on before the bus stops, and the red lights go onwhen it has stopped. However, a motorist should not depend on these lights,ifdrivingbehindaschoolbus.Theycouldbemalfunctioning.

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When a bus stops, all motorists traveling behind or approaching it must stoptheirvehiclesatleast25feetaway.Amotoristshouldonlyproceedafterthebussignalshavebeenturnedoff,andeventhen,he/shemustwatchforchildrenorpersonswhohavedevelopmentaldisabilities.

Ifaschoolbushasstoppeddirectlyinfrontofaschooltopick uporletoffchildrenor persons with developmental disabilities, a motorist may pass from eitherdirectionataspeedofnomorethan10mph.

STOP FOR FROZEN DESSERT TRUCKS(N.J.S.A.39:4-128.4)

When approaching or overtaking an ice cream or frozen dessert truck fromeither direction, and the truck is f l ashing red lights and posting a stop signalarm,amotoristmust:

Yieldtheright-of-waytoanypersonwhoiscrossingtheroadwaytoorfromthetruck.

Watchoutforchildrenandbepreparedtostop.

Stop,thendrivepastthetruckataslowspeedofnomorethan15mph.

A motorist need not stop on a dual highway if he/she is on the other side of asafety island or raised median.

PULL OVER AND STOP FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES New Jersey law requires all motorists to yield to emergency vehicles whenthey sound sirens and/orflashing red and/or blue emergency lights. A motoristshould steer to the extreme right of the roadway, stop and wait for the vehicle topass. Afterward, the motorist should keep at least 300 feet behind a signalingemergency vehicle. (N.J.S.A. 39:4-92)

Police cars, fire trucks, ambulances or other emergency vehicles have sirensand red lights. Private vehicles operated by volunteer fire and rescue squadmembers (with emergency vehicle identification) responding to an emergencycall use blue lights. A motorist should never park within 200 feet of a firedepartment vehicle in service or drive over a fire hose unless directed to do soby afire, emergency rescue or police official.


MOVE OVER LAW

New Jerseys Move Over law requires that all motorists approaching a stationary, authorized emergency vehicle, tow truck, highway maintenance or other emergency service vehicle that is displaying a flashing, blinking or alternating red, blue, amber or yellow light or, any configuration of lights containing one of these colors, must change lanes, safety and traffic conditions permitting, into a lane not adjacent to the authorized vehicle. If a lane change is impossible, prohibited by law or unsafe, the motorist must reduce the speed of his/her vehicle to a reasonable and proper speed that is lower than the posted speed limit and be prepared to stop, if necessary. Motorists who violate this law face a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500. (N.J.S.A. 39:4-92.2)

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Brake lights:Theselightsbecomebrighterwhenamotoristappliesthebrakes,showingthatthevehicleisslowingorstopping.

Interim (overhead) lights: Found inside the vehicle, these types of lightsshouldbeusedonlybriefly (whennecessary)whendrivingor tocomplywithapolice officers request to illuminate the motorists compartment of the vehiclewhenstopped.

Dashboard lights: Ifdashboard lightsare toobright, theymaycreateaglarefor themotoristand impedevision.The lightsshouldbekeptdimbutstill lightenoughforamotoristtoreadthedials.

Spotlights:Thesetypesoflightsshouldbeusedonlyinemergencies.Thisalsoapplies to emergency flashers (hazard lights). Spotlights may not be used fordrivingpurposes.

Fog lights:Theseauxiliarydrivinglightsmaybeusedwithlow-beamheadlightsto provide general lighting ahead of a motor vehicle, specifically during foggyweatherconditions.(N.J.A.C.13:20-32.25)

PARKING REGULATIONSAmotoristshouldalwayscheckfortrafficwhen leavingavehicleafterparking.He/sheshouldalsocheckforbicyclesormopeds,whicharesometimesdifficultto see,before opening the driver-side door and exiting the vehicle. A motoristopeningadoorintotrafficmaybeliableforanycollisionwithamovingvehicle.Itissaferforpassengerstoexitaparkedvehiclefromthecurbside.Amotoristshouldreadparkingsignsbeforeparkingonacitystreettobeawareofrestrictionsortimelimits.Itisillegalforavehicletobeparkedmorethansixinchesfromthecurb(N.J.S.A.39:4-135).Neverparkwhereavehiclewillblocktraffic.

DO NOT PARK (N.J.S.A.39:4-138)Unlessdirectedtodosobyapoliceofficerortoavoidanaccident,amotoristshouldneverstoporparkatanyofthefollowingplaces:

Onacrosswalk.

Betweenasafetyzoneforpedestriansandtheadjacentcurborwithin 20 feet of the end of the safety zone.


Nearproperlymarkedstreetconstruction.

Inaspaceonpublicorprivatepropertymarkedforvehicleparkingfor personswithadisability(unlesslegallyauthorized).

Onaninterstatehighway.

Onasidewalk.

Inabusstopzone.

Infrontofapublicorprivatedriveway.

Withinanintersection.

Within10feetofafire hydrant.

Within25feetofacrosswalkatanintersection,orsidelineofastreet orintersectionhighway,exceptatalleys.

Within50feetofarailroadcrossing.

Within50feetofastopsign.

Within20feetofthedrivewayentrancetoanyfire stationandwithin75 feetonthestreetoppositeafire stationentrance.

Onanybridgeorelevatedroadwayorinanytunnel.

Nexttoanothervehicleparkedatthecurb(doubleparking).

Inanareawhereparkingisprohibitedbymunicipalordinance.

Incaseofmechanicaltroubleorotheremergency,amotoristshouldstopontherighthighwayshoulderandturnonemergencyflashers.

CELLULAR TELEPHONESState law prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices (e.g., cellulartelephones) while driving a motor vehicle on any public road or highway.Using a handheld cellular telephone or texting device is a primary offense.Lawenforcementmaystopandciteamotoristspecifically for theseactions.Motorists are permitted to use a hands-free cellular telephone if it does notinterferewithanyfederallyrequiredsafetyequipmentorwiththesafeoperationofthevehicle.Althoughtheuseofahands-freecellulartelephoneislegal,itisstronglydiscouraged.Ahandheldcellulartelephonemaybeusedonlyincertainemergencysituations,whichinclude:

Fire.

Traffic accident.

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Seriousroadhazard.

Medicalemergency.

Hazardousmaterialemergency.

Motorists in the above-mentioned circumstances must keep one handon the steering wheel while using a handheld telephone. To provelegal use of a handheld telephone while operating a motor vehicle, amotorist may be asked to produce testimony or written statements fromappropriate authorities, or telephone records. The fine for breaking thislaw is $200-$400 for a first offense, $400-$600 for asecond offensewithin 10 years of the first offense, $600-$800 for athird offensewithin 10 years of the second offense and for all subsequent offenses.A person convicted of a third or subsequent violation shall also be assessed three motor vehicle penalty points. (N.J.S.A.39:4-97.3). Theremay be a 90-day license suspension as well.

Kuleshs, Kuberts, and Bolis Law, enacted in 2012, establishes illegaluse of a cell phone while driving as recklessness under the vehicularhomicide(N.J.S.A.2C:11-5)andassaultbyauto(N.J.S.A.2C:12-1)statutes.Theintent and effect of this law is to make it easier for prosecutors to obtainconvictions for vehicular homicide or assault by auto against a person whoillegallyusesacellphonewhiledrivingand,asaresult,killsorinjuressomeone.

A graduated driver license (GDL) holder may not use a handheldor hands-free cellular telephone, or any other handheld electronic device,when behind the wheel. Doing so is a violation of GDL restrictions. (N.J.S.A.39:3-13,39:3-13.2a,39:3-13.4)

A school bus driver may not use a handheld or hands-free cellular telephonewhileoperating theschoolbus,except inanemergencysituationorwhen theschoolbusisparkedinasafeareaoffofahighway.(N.J.S.A.39:3B-25)

LITTERINGThrowing trash, debris or rubbish from a moving or parked vehicle is illegal.Litterisasafetyhazardandaneyesore.Finesofupto$1,000maybeimposedonmotoristsfoundthrowingdangerousobjectsfromavehicleontoaroadway.Ifthevehicleismovingwhenlitteristhrown,themotoristmaylosehis/herlicense.Alltrash,debrisorrubbishcarriedinavehiclemustbecoveredtokeepitfromlitteringtheroadway.(N.J.S.A.39:4-63,39:4-64)


Chapter 5

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PREVENT A COLLISIONMostcollisionsarecausedbymotoristerror.Amotoristcanreducethechancesofacollisionbyknowingandusingthestandardcollision-preventionformula:

Be alert: Neverthinktheothermotoristwillnotmakeadrivingmistake.

Be prepared: Learnwhattodoinanysituationwhenyouhavetoactfast,andalwaysexpecttheunexpected.

Act in time: Trynottopanic.Knowwhattodoifsomethinghappenssuddenly.

AGGRESSIVE DRIVING/ROAD RAGEEmotionscangreatlyaffectamotoristsabilitytodrive.Ifamotoristisangryorexcited,he/sheshouldtaketimetocooloff.Aggressivedrivingisaprogressionofunlawfuldrivingactionsincluding,butnotlimitedto,unexpectedlyalteringthespeedofavehicle,makingimproperorerratictrafficlanechanges,disregardingtraffic control devices, failing to yield the right of way and following anothervehicletooclosely.

Unexpectedlyaltering thespeedofavehicle iscounterproductive to thegoal of safely operating a motor vehicle. The speed limit should alwaysbeobeyed,as failure todosocan result inaccidents, injuries,andevenfatalities.Thoughsomepeoplemayassume that it issafer togoslowerthantheothervehicles,itisactuallyimportanttokeepupwiththeflowoftraffic,asdoingsohelpscreateasafeenvironmentforallthoseontheroad.

Makingimproperand/orerratictrafficlanechangescanresultincollisions,andso,whenattemptingtochangelanes,itisimperativethattherear-and-sideviewmirrorsareutilized,theturnsignalsareproperlyandresponsiblyemployed, and that ample warning time is provided to other drivers inadvance of any lane change. Additionally, the vehicle should be kept inthecenterofthelaneatalltimes,asveeringtoeithersidecandisruptthesafeflowoftraffic,causeotherdriverstoswerve,andultimatelyresultinaccidents.

Disregardingtrafficcontroldevicescanresultincollisions,andtherefore,theyshouldalwaysbeobeyed.Itisimportantforadrivertopayattentiontotrafficcontroldevicesandproceedwiththeproperprotocolforagivencircumstance.Forexample,remembertostopatredlights.Arightturnon

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red is permissible provided there is no sign stating otherwise; however,onemustfirstcometoafullstopandyieldtotrafficandpedestrians.Aninadequatestopor failure toyieldcould result in injuryor fatality to thedriverand/orpedestrians!

Failingtoyieldtherightofwayisacommon,butpotentiallyfatal,mistake. Driversshouldalwaysyieldtherightofway,includingbutnotlimitedto oncomingtraffic.Keepaneyeoutforyieldsigns,schoolbusesflashingred lightsandothersituationsinwhichadrivermustyieldtopromoteroadway safety.

Followinganothervehicletoocloselyincreasesthechancesofacollisionif, foranyreason,thatvehiclecomestoasuddenorotherwiseunanticipatedstop,orifdrivingconditionsarelessthanideal,beitduetoexternalfactors suchasrain,snow,orfog,orinternaldeterminantslikeinadequatebrakes. Itis importanttokeepasafedistancebetweenvehicles,donottailgate, toallowsufficient reaction timeandsafestoppingdistance. It isagood practicetousethethree-second-plusrule,(seefollowingpages)tohelp judge sufficient following distances. Be sure to check that the vehicles breaksarealwaysinoptimaloperatingcondition.

Aggressivedriversfailtoconsiderhowtheiractionsbehindthewheelmayaffectothermotoristsontheroad.Whenbehindthewheel,amotoristshouldalwaysremain calm and follow the rules of the road. Extreme cases of aggressivedrivingmayleadtoroadrage.

Road rage occurs when motorists lose their tempers or become frustratedbecauseofatrafficdisturbance.Theseaggressivemotoristsmayrunstopsignsandredlights,speed,tailgate,weavethroughtraffic,passillegallyontheright,makeimproperandunsafelanechanges,makehandorfacialgestures,scream,honkhornsorflashhighbeams. Inextremecases,aggressivemotoristsmaycauseacollision.

NewJersey iswagingacampaignagainst road rage.Thestatehasspeciallytrained enforcement patrols to help stop aggressive motorists. To report anaggressivemotoristcall(888)SAF-ROADorcellphone#77.

Note:While thereareemergencyexceptions to thehandheldcellularphonelaw,itisalwayssafesttopullovertothesideoftheroadbeforemakingacall.


DISTRACTIONSOperating any motor vehicle requires the motorists full attention. In manycases, collisions are caused by a distracted motorist. Inattentive motoristsoften tailgate,go too fastordriftoutof their lanes.They ignore trafficsignsandsignals,roadmarkings,potentialtraffichazards,roadconditionsandothervehicles.Somecausesofinattentivedrivingare:

Lightingacigarette.

Tryingtofastenasafetybeltwhiledriving.

Reachingacrosstheseattocloseadoororlookintheglovecompartment.

Reachingforcoinsinpocketswhiledrivinguptoatollb

MVC Driver Manual - The Official Web Site for The State of New … · 2017-12-12MVC Driver Manual -...

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